The storm had maximum sustained winds early Friday near 40 mph (65 kph) with little change in strength expected until landfall, which was expected either late Friday or on Saturday in southern Baja California. After making landfall, the U.S. National Hurricane Center said Lorena should weaken until dissipating on Sunday or Monday.

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The port of La Paz was closed to small-craft navigation. Classes were cancelled in Cabo San Lucas and some schools were being prepared as shelters for possible evacuations. The rain had begun and waves broke hard at Medano Beach at the very tip of the peninsula, where workers hurried to store chairs, tables and kayaking and snorkeling equipment away from the beach.

Businesses closed and left sandbags to prevent any flooding.

A tropical storm warning was in effect for southern Baja California from Agua Blanca to Buenavista.

The storm was centered about 50 miles (85 kilometers) southeast of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and is moving northwest near 12 mph (19 kph).